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 done an act my better judgment condemns; but such are the existing circumstances, that I saw evidently there was no alternative to pursue. The great error I have committed, was admitting the Count as a visitor into my house. All other subsequent events was the result of my weakness in that point; Heaven grant that you may, as now, ever consider it as a fortunate hour for your happiness; and that I may never upbraid myself for my conduct, I hope soon to hear from your father; and if he does not disapprove of your union, as you hope, I shall then be better reconciled to myself than I now am. Here is a paper I have drawn up, and signed as a certificate of your marriage, and I entreat you carefully to preserve it." He embraced me with great tenderness, and blessed me with much fervency, promising to be a frequent visitor.

Elated with my marriage, anticipating future scenes of happiness and independence, and enjoying the pleasure my father must feel, when acquainted with a settlement so advantageous to me, not one gloomy idea